European Elderberry

Sambucus nigra, Adoxaceae

Zones

4–8

Layer

Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Pollinator AttractorDynamic AccumulatorBeneficial Insect HabitatProducer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)Partial Sun (acceptable)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

ModerateModerateModerate

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

OnionAllium cepa

Beneficial Insect HabitatPest Deterrent

Black ChokeberryAronia melanocarpa

Pest DeterrentBeneficial Insect Habitat

PassionflowerPassiflora incarnata

Physical SupportPollinator Sharing

SpicebushLindera benzoin

Pest DeterrentBeneficial Insect Habitat

Swamp RoseRosa palustris

Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

American ElderberrySambucus canadensis

Elderberry species with aggressive growth compete for territory and resources

Red ElderberrySambucus racemosa

Elderberry species compete intensely for resources and can hybridize, leading to reduced fitness in offspring.

Uses

Functions

Nutrient AccumulationFoodMedicine

Edible Parts

FruitFlowers

Common Questions

What zones does European Elderberry grow in?

European Elderberry grows in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.

What are good companion plants for European Elderberry?

Good companions for European Elderberry include Onion, Black Chokeberry, Passionflower, Spicebush, Swamp Rose.

Design guilds with European Elderberry and see companion relationships visually.

Try PatternBase free